International Student Carolina Hotz ’25 Journeys Abroad Overseas and Pursues Accounting Degree in United States

Carolina grew up in Germany, moving to the United Stated in 2019 to become an au pair. An au pair is a person from another country who comes to the U.S. to live with a host family, typically playing a role in childcare for the host family while engaging in cultural exchange and learning. Carolina loved the experience of being an au pair, including experiencing the values and life of her exchange family and in turn sharing her values and experiences with them.

While working as an au pair, Carolina gradually decided to pursue a degree, citing influence from people she met, the sense of community she found in her experiences, and the circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic. With German universities staying closed for longer than U.S. universities, Carolina got the opportunity to explore her options for higher education in the United States.

Her exploration led her first to Cincinnati State College, where she earned her Associate of Applied Science in Business Management Administration and Technology, and held an impressive 4.0 GPA. "I knew I wanted to be in business, but keep my options open" Carolina reflects on her decision to pursue her degree. "Business Management Administration and Technology felt like the perfect blend of versatility and opportunity within the business realm."

Carolina was first introduced to Mount St. Joseph University through a transfer fair at Cincinnati State. After visiting campus and learning about the Mount's merit-based scholarship system, she decided to make the transition. In the fall of 2021, Carolina transferred to the Mount to pursue a bachelor's degree in Accounting. "Accounting is known to be the language of business," Carolina explains, "so this program provides me with essential technical skills that I can hopefully transfer into various career paths in the future."

Going the Distance Academically

Transferring to the Mount was a big change for Carolina, especially coming from Cincinnati State College, where she remembers everyone commuting. The Mount's campus was a significant but welcome change. "MSJ is a vibrant campus with weekly activities, like weekly sport events, or sometimes has therapy dogs visiting! This just creates a lively atmosphere. I especially enjoy the cafeteria with its daily changing menu, the friendly cafeteria staff, the on campus Starbucks for my caffeine fix, and the extensive gym, which keeps me active between long study sessions," she recounts.

Having finished her first semester at the Mount, Carolina reflects that "it was a challenging but rewarding experience, and I'm proud of how much I've grown academically and personally." In addition to her academic success over the semester, she received the Mount's Mosaic Scholarship, awarded to students who commit to a deeper understanding of and appreciation for diversity. In addition to this being an honor to earn, Carolina explains that the award also boosted her confidence in herself and serves as motivation for her going forward in her studies and future career.

Carolina reflects on her time at the Mount so far, noting that "what I love about the Mount is the blend of a small-school atmosphere and a vibrant community. Despite its size, MSJ offers many clubs and student activities, fostering a sense of belonging."

Additionally, the expert MSJ professors go the distance to ensure their students are supported spiritually and academically. "Due to the size of the school, the professors truly know and care about their students and help where they can," Carolina explains. "This makes my academic journey enriching and fulfilling."

Looking Ahead

Once she graduates from the Mount with her Accounting degree, Carolina plans to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), a form of employment that would allow her to remain in the U.S. and give her the opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge she will have gained in school in a professional setting.

"I'm enthusiastic about this opportunity to find a job where I can immerse myself fully and demonstrate my capabilities," she says. "As I navigate the world of accounting, I am excited about the opportunities and challenges that are yet to come, and I am grateful to be part of the supportive and nurturing community as Mount St. Joseph."

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Interested in Accounting?

Our accounting curriculum is designed to equip graduates with technical knowledge, professional skills, and personal attributes necessary for employment and growth in the accounting profession. In addition to making our graduates proficient in the language of business, we instill strong ethics and beliefs through the foundations of a strong liberal arts education.

Visit our Accounting Program Page here to learn more!